The OECD collects an extensive range of statistics from both the 29 member, and 10 non-member countries within the programme of activities of the Centre for Co-operation with Non-Members (CCNM).The primary purpose for collecting such information is to provide a statistical base for use by various directorates within the organization, in country surveys, economic analyses and the formulation of policy recommendations to member governments in current areas of OECD activity.
Scope and coverage
| Number of series: | 9,700 |
| Number of countries: | 39 |
| Data history: | 1961 to present |
| Frequency: | Monthly, Quarterly, Yearly |
| Update cycle: | Monthly |
Information provided
The Main Economic Indicators (MEI) provides an overall view of short-term economic developments through presentation of the following indicators: National accounts; Production; Business and consumer opinion surveys; Composite leading indicators; Manufacturing; Construction; Domestic trade; Labour market indicators; Producer prices; Consumer prices; Interest rates; Share prices; Exchange rates; Foreign trade; Balance of payments.
Most of these indicators are important instruments for formulation of economic policy by the countries included in this publication. They are well known and widely collected and used by those countries and by international organizations. In addition, the methods for their collection and compilation are well established and generally adequately documented within each country. Even so, the methodologies used are not always transparent for a large number of users. This may in some instances lead to misinterpretation of statistical data and a misunderstanding of economic phenomena, especially when making international comparisons. Undertaking such comparison requires thorough acquaintance with the definitions, sources and methods of compilation of the indicators in question.